Government says action against monks based on evidence as backlash grows

While acknowledging the sensitivity of the temple fund corruption case, the Prime Minister has confirmed that authorities must act according to evidence and seek justice, urging members of the public to use their better judgement when considering the online protests of some monks.

Prime Minister’s Office Minister Suwaphan Tanyuwattana, who oversees the National Office of Buddhism (NOB), has assured the people that investigations into the nation’s temples are not being conducted with bias or a hidden agenda but rather are based on facts and evidence, pointing out some protests against the action are based on untruths.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Gen Prawit Wongsuwan similarly gave an assurance that the government is not merely harassing Buddhist clergymen while acknowledging that coordination has begun with Germany after the vice abbot of Wat Samphantawong, Phra Phrom Meti, requested asylum there.

The Network of Citizens and Attorneys in Defense of Buddhism is meanwhile to present the NOB with a request for it to explain an order that monks no longer handle cash. The group sees the order as beyond the authority of the NOB and a violation of monks' rights. It is also asking for action to be taken against NOB staff named in the temple fund corruption case and is to file a complaint with Crime Suppression Division Police charging the NOB director with misuse of office.

Information and Source
Reporter : Itiporn Lakarnchua
Rewriter : Itiporn Lakarnchua
National News Bureau & Public Relations

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